Where Is Hurricane Erin Now? Latest Path, East Coast Impact, and Forecast Update

As of August 21, 2025, Hurricane Erin remains a significant threat along the U.S. East Coast, delivering dangerous tropical storm conditions even as it moves away from land. Classified as a Category 2 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 105 mph, Erin is located approximately 200 miles off the coast of Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, moving north-northeast at 17 mph.

The storm’s immense size—spanning over 530 miles in diameter—makes it one of the largest hurricanes ever recorded in the Atlantic. Despite its center staying offshore, its far-reaching outer bands are producing powerful swells, life-threatening rip currents, and beach erosion across a vast coastal stretch from Florida to New England.

Where is Hurricane Erin currently and how is it affecting the East Coast?

Hurricane Erin is currently northeast of the Bahamas and roughly 751 miles away from Nassau, heading north-northeast. While the storm is not expected to make direct landfall in the United States, its effects are already being felt across the eastern seaboard.

North Carolina and Virginia have experienced tropical storm-force winds and storm surges, particularly across the Outer Banks. As of early Thursday, parts of Highway 12 in North Carolina were flooded and deemed impassable. Large waves continue to batter the shoreline, with wind speeds in some areas reaching up to 50 mph.

Governor Josh Stein of North Carolina declared a state of emergency on Wednesday, mobilizing water rescue teams and National Guard troops in anticipation of rising tides and inland flooding. In addition, beaches from Florida to Maine are under advisories or have been closed entirely due to the elevated risk of rip currents.

What are the expected impacts from Hurricane Erin over the next few days?

The National Hurricane Center warns that Erin will remain a hurricane through the weekend. Tropical storm conditions are expected to continue in Virginia and may reach parts of southern New England. Bermuda is also expected to experience tropical storm-force winds and rain through Friday.

• Coastal areas should prepare for continued:

  • High surf and beach flooding

  • Dangerous rip currents

  • Erosion of sand dunes

  • Storm surge flooding in low-lying areas

A graphic released Thursday morning by the National Weather Service highlighted the disparity in wind intensity across the storm’s diameter. The red zone, denoting hurricane-force winds, is surrounded by a large yellow ring of tropical storm-force winds that extend hundreds of miles from the core. This means coastal communities far from the storm’s center remain vulnerable to damaging wind gusts and rough seas.

On-the-ground conditions and evacuations

In North Carolina’s beach towns, including Duck and Nags Head, waves several feet high have already lashed wooden piers and protective dunes. Evacuation orders were issued earlier in the week for Hatteras Island and other exposed areas. Many tourists have left, but some residents chose to stay behind, citing previous storm experiences and personal preparations.

Officials have been urging caution and reinforcing the importance of avoiding ocean waters. In Wrightsville Beach, over 70 people were rescued on Monday alone due to rip currents triggered by Erin’s swells. Similar conditions are expected to persist throughout the week.

Will Hurricane Erin strengthen or weaken?

While Hurricane Erin has fluctuated in intensity over the past few days, forecasters believe the storm could strengthen slightly as it passes over warmer Atlantic waters. However, its current trajectory indicates it will continue moving away from the U.S. coastline.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) continues to predict an above-average hurricane season, expecting up to 18 named storms by November’s end. Erin is the first hurricane of the 2025 Atlantic season and already serves as a sobering reminder of how even offshore storms can bring major hazards to coastal communities.

Residents are advised to monitor local weather updates and follow evacuation or safety guidelines issued by emergency management offices.

For your information:

Where is Hurricane Erin right now?
Hurricane Erin is about 200 miles east of Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, moving north-northeast into the Atlantic. It remains a Category 2 storm with tropical storm impacts along the coast.

Is Hurricane Erin hitting the U.S. directly?
No. The storm is not expected to make landfall, but its large size means parts of the East Coast are experiencing tropical storm-force winds, storm surge, and flooding.

Which areas are under threat from Hurricane Erin?
The Outer Banks of North Carolina, Virginia coast, and parts of the U.S. Mid-Atlantic and New England are under threat from high winds, dangerous surf, and coastal flooding.

Will Hurricane Erin affect Bermuda?
Yes, Bermuda is expected to experience tropical storm conditions through Friday, including rain and wind gusts.

Has a state of emergency been declared?
Yes, North Carolina Governor Josh Stein declared a state of emergency to deploy emergency response teams and manage flood-prone infrastructure.

How does Hurricane Erin compare to past storms?
With a diameter over 530 miles, Erin ranks among the largest hurricanes ever in the Atlantic and is causing significant impacts even without making landfall.